We did not expect Philip home for the holidays.

Through the Baroness' help he was already filling the post of manager of an estate in the far north.

The young barons had also completed their studies and were expected to come home and to consult with their mother about their plans for the future.

She fully expected them to travel before settling down, and after that she hoped sincerely that one of them would come to live at home with her; this would mean that he would take the care of the estate on his shoulders with its troubles and responsibilities.

Soon after their arrival the sons seemed to have had an interview with their mother which clearly worried her, for she went about silently, refusing to answer any questions.